Big plays and momentum shifts highlighted the game as pressure in the second half caused McNeese’s early rhythm to break down, leading to a fourth season loss vs UT-Rio Grande Valley Nov. 15.  

McNeese started the game with early momentum, but UTRGV’s late surge turned the tide and propelled the Vaqueros to a 28–13 win.

The Cowboys fell to 4-7. They have one more game left on the road against Lamar Saturday. 

The Cowboys struck first with a long field goal, then followed it up with the highlight of the night: an explosive deep touchdown pass that put McNeese ahead 10–0. For a moment, the Cowboys looked fully in control, moving the ball efficiently and keeping the Vaqueros off balance. 

The Vaqueros led 14–10 at the half thanks to two touchdown drives led by quarterback Eddie Lee Marburger, who connected on key passes to erase the deficit. Despite being down, McNeese kept moving the ball and scored a field goal in the third quarter to cut the score to 14–13. 

The Vaqueros opened the fourth quarter with a momentum-shifting deep touchdown, then capitalized again minutes later with another scoring drive that stretched the lead to two possessions. McNeese’s offense had been productive all night but struggled to finish drives late, while UTRGV’s defense tightened up and closed out the game. 

“I really liked the way our kids played,” head Coach Matt Viator said. “I really loved the way we competed. You know, I thought we played the game the right way for sure. I think they had a good team. Really was impressed with Rio Grande’s quarterback. Thought he was a really good player.”